Mellowed Magic (Goodnight Mr Tom - Michelle Magorian)

Member Name: K.R.MkD

Product:	Goodnight Mr Tom - Michelle Magorian
Date:	29/05/01 (593 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Emotional, Gripping, Addictive

Disadvantages: N/A

Goodnight Mr. Tom is a wonderful tale of emotions concerning a small, meek evacuee (William Beech) drafted into the country from London in World War II and the impact he has on a gruff, unsocialable old country man. (Thomas Oakley) It is a modern, classic tale, the likes of which can be precious few.

The tale develops beautifully, showing how William gradually adapts to life in the country, and life in general. At 8 years old, his gruff supervisor soon warms to the new child in his life, bringing back past memories for him. At the same time, his instant impressions of the terrified boy suggest to him that something is badly wrong, and after a wonderful few months for William, the suspicions are raised again, when William's mother summons him back to London.

Magorian develops the emotions and love between characters very well, shown by William's precious friendships, his reaction to a terrible piece of bad news, and most touching, how he and 'Mr. Tom' develop a bond that cannot be separated. Could it be this that saves William from his direst peril?

Anyone who has seen the recent production starring John Thaw saw a great representation, but that does not even touch the depth and emotion that go into this wonderful creation, which puts a smile over the thoughts of the treacherous war.

I thoroughly recommend this book to the age of 11-12, and any age above that wanting a relaxing read. This is so addictive, I can pick it up and remind myself of the delights at least once a year, and it would be great if fellow readers thought the same.

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